Nantale Maria (P.1)

Nantale Maria is a 9-year-old girl in Primary 1. She lives with her mother in Kisigula village. When Maria was just 1 year old, her father left them and never came back. Her mother works very hard to care for Maria and her siblings. With no steady job, she does casual work whenever she can to earn money for food and school fees. Taking care of many children is very difficult for her.

Maria loves school, but she often struggles with a persistent headache, especially when it is cold. This makes it hard for her to concentrate fully in class and affects her ability to play with friends in the community.

Maria dreams of becoming a teacher when she grows up. In her free time, she enjoys playing netball with her friends. Maria’s hope and determination inspire everyone around her, even in tough times.